Study Links Hallucinogen-Related ER Visits With Increased Schizophrenia Risk

While psychedelics may have therapeutic potential, their use carries significant risk, particularly for those most vulnerable to psychosis.

A blister pack of Ketamine lozenges. Cole Burston/AFP via Getty Images

A new study has linked psychedelic use that results in emergency room (ER) visits with an increased risk of schizophrenia.

The research, published on Nov. 13 in JAMA Psychiatry, found that people who went to the ER for hallucinogen-related issues were more than 21 times more likely to be diagnosed with schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSDs) within three years compared to the general population.